Okapi skin is highly sensitive to contact. This helps detect insects and threats. Sensitivity triggers quick responses. It also aids navigation through dense foliage. Touch feedback prevents injury. Sensory skin increases awareness.
This improves survival in cluttered habitats. Feeling danger early matters.
It shows how touch is undervalued as a sense. Skin can act like radar.
Okapids react instantly to light touches from branches.
Smithsonian National Zoo (si.edu)